Medicare Enrollment Scams: What To Watch For During AEP 2026

Every year during Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), scammers ramp up their efforts to target seniors. Because many people are reviewing their coverage, comparing plans, and responding to Medicare-related mail and advertisements, scammers see an opportunity to take advantage of the confusion. AEP runs October 15 - December 7 and allows beneficiaries to make changes to their Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug coverage for 2027.  

While scam tactics change, the goal typically remains the same: getting access to personal information that can be used for identity theft and/or fraud. Knowing what to watch for can help you avoid becoming a victim.

Why Medicare Scams Matter

Your Medicare number is valuable to criminals. In the wrong hands, it can be used to submit fraudulent claims, obtain prescription drugs illegally, or commit other forms of healthcare fraud. Scammers may also try to collect your Social Security number, bank account information, or other personal details that could be used to steal money or open accounts in your name.  

The good news is that a lot of scams follow repeatable patterns that can be spotted, if you know what to look for.  

Social Media Ads That Sound Too Good to Be True

Social media has become one of the most common places for Medicare-related scams. You may see advertisements promising large spending allowances, special debit cards, thousands of dollars in benefits, or other offers designed to grab your attention. While some Medicare Advantage plans do provide supplemental benefits, the advertisements often exaggerate what's actually available or leave out important eligibility requirements. You should also know that Medicare Supplement plans are regulated and each carrier must provide the same benefits. The things carriers can adjust are underwriting requirements and premium price.

Before responding to an advertisement, take time to verify the information through a trusted source. Be especially cautious anytime you're asked to provide personal information online.

Unexpected Phone Calls

A surprise phone call about Medicare should always be approached with caution. Scammers often pose as Medicare representatives, insurance companies, or licensed agents and may claim they need to verify your information, update your coverage, or enroll you in a new plan.

Many of these callers create a sense of urgency. They may tell you your plan is changing, your benefits are ending, or that you need to act immediately to avoid losing coverage. Others may promise gifts, rebates, or extra benefits in exchange for personal information. These tactics are designed to pressure people into making quick decisions without asking questions.  

If someone contacts you unexpectedly and asks for your Medicare number, Social Security number, banking information, or other personal information, it's best to hang up and verify the information independently.

Be Careful About Sharing Personal Information

One of the simplest ways to protect yourself is to be selective about what information you share. Scammers may contact you by phone, email, text message, social media, or through websites that appear legitimate. Their goal is often to collect information that can be used for fraud.

While sharing basic contact information may seem harmless, your Medicare number, Social Security number, banking information, and insurance details should only be provided when you're certain you're working with a trusted source. Taking a few extra minutes to verify who you're speaking with can prevent significant problems later.  

The New Medicare Card Scam

One scam that continues to surface involves callers claiming Medicare is issuing new cards. They may describe a plastic card, a card with a computer chip, or an upgraded Medicare card that requires verification before it can be mailed.

These claims are not true. People who respond often discover the caller's real objective was obtaining their Medicare number or other personal information. Medicare will contact you directly with any changes via mail. Beneficiaries should be cautious of anyone requesting sensitive information in exchange for a replacement or upgraded card.

Refund and Rebate Offers

Everyone likes the idea of getting money back, which is why refund scams remain so effective. Scammers may claim you're owed a rebate because of a recent Medicare change or that you've overpaid for services and qualify for a refund.

The conversation usually leads to a request for your Medicare number or bank account information so the refund can supposedly be processed. Before providing any information, confirm the offer directly through Medicare or your insurance carrier.

Free Medical Supplies and Health Screenings

Offers for free genetic testing, medical equipment, prescription medications, or health screenings should be approached with caution. These promotions often sound legitimate but are intended to collect personal information or Medicare numbers.

If a medical test or supply is truly needed, it will generally come through a healthcare provider you already know and trust. Unexpected offers from strangers should raise questions, especially when personal information is requested.

Threats About Losing Coverage

Fear is another common tool scammers use. Some callers claim your Medicare coverage will be canceled unless you verify information immediately. Others insist you must enroll in a different plan to keep your benefits.

These situations can be alarming, but legitimate Medicare communications don't rely on threats or pressure. When someone demands immediate action or tries to create panic, it's often a sign that something isn't right.  

Watch for Text Message Scams

Text message scams continue to grow each year. These messages often contain links that appear to lead to Medicare resources but instead direct users to fraudulent websites designed to capture personal information.

If you receive a Medicare-related text from someone you don't recognize, DO NOT click any links until you've confirmed the source. A healthy amount of skepticism can help prevent a costly mistake.

Medicare Doesn't Endorse Specific Plans

No Medicare Advantage plan, Medicare Supplement, or Part D plan is officially endorsed by Medicare as the best option for everyone. Coverage decisions are highly personal and depend on factors such as healthcare needs, prescription medications, provider preferences, and budget.

Be wary of any claims that Medicare has selected a particular plan for you or is recommending one company over another. Those statements should be viewed with extreme caution.  

Take Your Time During AEP

One of the most common tactics scammers use is creating urgency. They may tell you an offer expires today or insist you only have a few hours to make a decision.

The reality is that Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. Beneficiaries have time to review their options, ask questions, and make informed decisions. Anyone pushing you to act immediately should be considered questionable and likely avoided.

Conclusion

AEP is an important opportunity to review your Medicare coverage, but it's also a time when scammers are especially active. Staying cautious, protecting your personal information, and verifying unexpected communications can go a long way toward protecting yourself from fraud.

When something feels suspicious, trust your instincts. Taking a little extra time to confirm information is always better than dealing with the consequences of identity theft or Medicare fraud later.